Ajaz Patel Back In New Zealand Squad For Key Tests Against Afghanistan And Sri Lanka

New Zealand has announced a robust squad for their upcoming Test series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Spinner Ajaz Patel makes a comeback to the red-ball team after being absent since the Bangladesh tour last year. He replaces pace-bowling all-rounder Scott Kuggelejin from the previous Test squad.

All-rounder Michael Bracewell also returns to the Test setup, having recovered from an injury sustained earlier this year during the T20I series in Pakistan. Opener Devon Conway is back as well, after missing the home series against Australia earlier this year.

Tim Southee (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Kane Williamson, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vice captain), Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Will Young.

The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the one that lost 2-0 to Australia on home soil. Experienced fast bowler Tim Southee retains his role as captain. Key batters such as Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson are included.

Will Young and wicketkeeper Tom Blundell will provide additional batting options. Southee will be supported by fellow pacers Matt Henry, Ben Sears and Will O'Rourke. The spin department includes Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel and Michael Bracewell alongside part-timers Phillips and Ravindra.

With spin expected to play a crucial role in sub-continent conditions, New Zealand coach Gary Stead has indicated that fast bowlers might not be used in every match. "Test tours to the sub-continent can ask some really tough questions of pace bowlers due to the nature of the pitches and the heat and humidity," Stead said as quoted by ICC.

"While we're going over with an open mind around conditions, there is an understanding that all our bowling options may be needed across the different Tests," he added. "Tim and I have discussed this, and the need during these overseas tours to balance the workloads of the pace-bowlers, including himself, to ensure the team is best served."

The Kiwis will face Afghanistan in a single Test in Noida (India) from September 9 to 13 before heading to Sri Lanka for two ICC World Test Championship matches starting on September 18 and September 26.

These matches are crucial for New Zealand's quest to qualify for next year's World Test Championship final. The Kiwis currently occupy third place on the standings below India and Australia.

Following their matches in Sri Lanka, New Zealand will play a three-match series against India away from home during October and November. They will then host England for another three-game series at home at the end of the year.